Richard Michael Thomas

Richard Thomas, aged 86, was a man deeply cherished by his family, friends, and community. He was the beloved husband of Margaret (née Mullen), with whom he shared 57 remarkable years of marriage until her passing. Together, they built a family full of love, joy, and enduring bonds.

Richard was a proud father to Nancy (Milt) Shaheen, Rick (Beckie), Bill, Jim (Joyce), and Sandi Thomas. His love extended to his cherished grandchildren, Jackie (Chris), Becky (Tom), Taylor (Donny), Brandon, Mischa, Jacob (Megan), Jena (Marissa), and Jimmy (Kaitlynne). As a doting great-grandfather, he adored Harper Robin, Millie Jean (Angel in Heaven), and Lily Margaret. Richard’s family was his treasure, and his unwavering devotion to them was evident in every aspect of his life.

For 42 years, Richard served as a college professor at Cuyahoga Community College, where he dedicated his life to shaping the minds of countless students. His passion for education and commitment to his profession left an indelible mark on the academic community, earning him respect and admiration from colleagues and students alike.

Outside the classroom, Richard was a man of many interests. He was an avid fisherman who found joy and peace in nature’s waters. His love for animals was unwavering, and this compassion extended beyond pets to wild creatures, whom he delighted in feeding during his retirement years. He also had a fascination with firearms and spent time at the gun range, honing his skills and enjoying this unique pastime. Additionally, he expressed his creativity through drawing, a pursuit that allowed him to capture the beauty and complexity of the world around him.

Richard was deeply loved not only by his immediate family but also by his extended family and friends. He was the dearest brother to Brenda Glasgow and a caring cousin to Howard. Joan, his loving friend and devoted caregiver, stood by him with unwavering loyalty and affection, offering a companionship that was as profound as it was comforting. As an uncle and friend to many, his warm presence and kind-hearted nature brought joy to all who knew him.

Richard’s family suggests that donations be made to the Parma Animal Shelter, located at 6260 State Road, Parma, Ohio 44134, honoring his dedication to animals and their welfare.

Richard Thomas’s life was one of love, curiosity, and dedication. He will be remembered for his profound impact on his family, his students, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched and the memories he created during his extraordinary journey through life.

A memorial gathering will be held on Tuesday, May 20 from 5-7 pm at Donald A. Faulhaber Funeral Home, 7915 Broadview Road (at Sprague).